### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **assárion**, represented by `{{G787}}`, is of Latin origin and refers to **an assarius or as, a Roman coin**, commonly translated as **farthing**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. The term is used to denote a coin of extremely small monetary value.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G787}}` appears exclusively in passages discussing the sale of sparrows to illustrate a theological point. In one account, the question is posed, "Are not two sparrows sold for a **farthing**?" [[Matthew 10:29]]. A parallel passage in Luke uses slightly different quantities to make the same point about their minimal worth, asking if five sparrows are sold for two **farthings** [[Luke 12:6]]. In both instances, the coin establishes the negligible value of these small birds in human commerce.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide the context for the value and transaction associated with a **farthing**:
* `{{G1417}}` **dýo** (two): This primary numeral for **"two"** is used to quantify either the sparrows being sold [[Matthew 10:29]] or the number of **farthings** being paid [[Luke 12:6]].
* `{{G4002}}` **pénte** (five): Meaning **"five"**, this number appears in Luke's account to specify the quantity of sparrows purchased for a very low price [[Luke 12:6]].
* `{{G4453}}` **pōléō** (to sell): This term defines the commercial transaction, confirming that the sparrows are **sold** for the price of a **farthing** ([[Matthew 10:29]], [[Luke 12:6]]).
* `{{G4765}}` **strouthíon** (little sparrow): As the object of the transaction, the **"little sparrow"** is the creature whose life is valued at a mere **farthing** [[Matthew 10:29]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G787}}` lies not in its monetary value but in what it represents in contrast to God's valuation.
* **Contrasting Value:** The **farthing** is used to establish the lowliest price imaginable for a living creature. This is immediately contrasted with God's perspective, who does not forget even one of them [[Luke 12:6]].
* **Divine Awareness:** The use of the coin emphasizes that what is worth a mere **farthing** to man does not escape God's notice, as not even one sparrow falls to the ground without the Father's knowledge [[Matthew 10:29]].
* **Human Worth:** By setting this low benchmark, the passages powerfully affirm the immense value of human beings, who are explicitly told they are "of more value than many sparrows" [[Luke 12:7]].
### Summary
In summary, **assárion** `{{G787}}` is more than just a reference to a Roman coin. It functions as a powerful rhetorical tool in scripture. By representing the smallest unit of commercial value, it serves to highlight the infinite and compassionate attentiveness of God, who treasures what the world considers almost worthless and places an immeasurable value on humanity.
TRV